Learning Activity 4-C-1

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Blogs for Reflective Learning

Overview

Reflective blogging allows students to communicate their thoughts about a topic with themselves, their teachers, and their peers. It provides students with the opportunity for self-evaluation as well as feedback from readers. Blogs let students take ownership of their learning, giving them a medium to ponder the tough questions, explore solutions, and develop their critical thinking skills. Maintaining a reflective blog over a period of time also allows for students to see the growth and development in their learning

".......We’ve taught students to expect to write essays that won’t be read by anyone other
than the teacher and maybe an external grader. Sometimes, the realization that their
writing matters outside of the classroom can be a strong learning experience for students." (Source:
http://www.virclass.net/eped/ep_tmp/files/17842056574abc85cdf304e.pdf )

Benefits of Blogging as a Reflection Tool

1. Students can decide the mode of expression (written text or video)

2. Collaborate to work through problems and identify solutions

3. If a teacher's school district uses the Danielson Framework, a teacher could document their growth in professionalism

4. Bloggers grow in their knowledge because they post their thoughts and review comments by others

5. Blogging can create an authentic community of learners

6. Blogging allows for an extension of learning outside of the classroom

7. Blogging helps students develop their critical thinking skills

Negatives of Using Blogging as a Reflection Tool

1. Can be difficult to keep updated

2. They are posted on the web (privacy issue)

3. It can be difficult to engage in conversations

4. It can be difficult to have a singular focus, as the blogger or commenters can change the direction of the subject

5. Some students do not have access internet access.

Assignment Ideas Incorporating Blogging

1. Students can have classroom discussions online and link to evidence that supports their thinking

2. Students can save and link other blogs and comments to delve deeper into a topic

3. Students can blog about a current event and take a stance. Linking resources to support their side.

4. Students can create collaborative classroom notes.

5. Each week students could post a summary of the content learned in class.

Group A 4-C-1